In a grand ceremony at Jubilee House on Saturday, November 9, 2024, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo conferred Ghana’s highest national honor, the Companion of the Order of Volta (CV), on Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration. This prestigious award celebrates Ayorkor Botchwey’s remarkable commitment to public service and her profound impact on Ghana’s foreign relations and global diplomacy.
Ayorkor Botchwey’s illustrious career in public service spans nearly two decades, with notable roles as a four-term Member of Parliament and Ghana’s Foreign Minister since 2017. Her exceptional leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has solidified Ghana’s position as a stabilizing force in the region, showcasing her dedication to peace and cooperation.
Recently, she made history as the first Ghanaian and African woman to be elected Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations ¹ ². This achievement brings immense pride to Ghana, reflecting the nation’s standing among others and reinforcing its reputation for producing influential global leaders committed to diplomacy and women’s empowerment.
As Ayorkor Botchwey prepares to assume her new role, the government extends its warmest congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. Her leadership is expected to elevate Ghana’s role on the world stage, inspiring others in the pursuit of peace, development, and unity.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
